BIBLE

Bible 7: New Testament, Part II
This New Testament course focuses on the development of the early church and the spread of Christianity.  Students learn the historical development of the Church, Paul’s missionary journeys, and the impact of the Gospel on Jews and Gentiles alike.
(Semester Course)

ENGLISH

English 7 
This course increases students’ knowledge and appreciation of fine literature; develops communication skills, both oral and written; and establishes the habit of critical thinking. Through the use of the literature text and supplemental readings, students study short stories, short novels, poetry, and drama, and increase their understanding of the elements of fiction including character, setting, and plot. Students learn to express themselves clearly, concisely, and correctly through the study of grammar, regular vocabulary and spelling tests, and frequent writing assignments including essays and poetry. A unit of study is devoted to proper research techniques and MLA (Modern Language Association) style.  At least one inter-departmental research paper (e.g., history-English, science-English) is assigned during the year.
(Full Year course)

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Latin 1a (Grade 7)
This course is an intensive introduction to the rudiments of the Latin language and the Roman world.  Students acquire proficiency in reading and translating basic Latin constructions, study elements of Roman civilization, explore etymological dictionaries, and increase their knowledge of Latin phrases and abbreviations commonly used in the modern world.  Students who have completed Phenomenon of Language 6 as well as students new to the study of Latin will find this class challenging and exciting.
(Full Year Course)

Spanish 1a (Grade 7)
This course is intended to help the student reach a Novice-High level of proficiency for speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The student begins to comprehend words and phrases in the form of simple questions, statements, and frequently used commands. Practice of new skills and vocabulary occurs through various classroom activities and at-home assignments such as paired conversations, practice drills, oral presentations, spoken and written exercise, and assigned readings. This course also introduces the students to the geography and culture of the Spanish-speaking world through authentic materials, music, magazines, and video clips. The course also attempts to train students in the use of strategies unique to language study.
(Full Year Course)

HISTORY

U.S. History, Part I (Grade 7)
This course is a study of American history from the Age of Exploration up to the Civil War.  The class concentrates on the political, economic, and social developments of the country and where applicable, focuses on Maryland history.  Class discussions, reading of primary sources, and essay writing will challenge students to develop consistent arguments and to think critically.  Current events will be incorporated through projects and comparative chronological studies.
(Full Year Course)

MATHEMATICS (Students will be tested/placed in the appropriate level)

Math 7 – Glencoe Course 2
This course introduces algebraic concepts by developing an understanding of operations on all rational numbers and solving linear equations, proportionality, and using formulas to determine surface areas and volumes of three-dimensional shapes.  The course emphasizes problem solving and uses technology to help understand abstract concepts.
(Full Year Course)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education 7/8
This course is designed to introduce a wide variety of sports to students.  The purpose of the class is to help students understand the concept of team sports.  They will learn the rules, the object of the games, and the fundamentals of each sport.  Students will learn teamwork and good sportsmanship, as well as the ability to get along with other classmates, in a competitive atmosphere.  The class is also designed to develop motor skills and provide an understanding of the importance of physical exercise to the mental and physical well-being of the individual. 2011-12 PE.
(Semester Course) 

SCIENCE

Life Science (Grade 7)
This course is designed as a survey course touching all the major areas of life science.  Students begin the year with a study of living things, focusing on the cell as the basic unit of life.  Cell structure and activities such as photosynthesis and respiration are covered.  The first half of the year ends with a study of genetics.  The second semester begins with a unit on classification and the theory of evolution in contrast to Biblical creation and the evidences for intelligent design.  The rest of the year is spent in a study of the six kingdoms.  Laboratory work includes studies with the digital microscope, the cell and cell processes, and the frog dissection.  Students are required to do an outside science project during first semester, and are encouraged to participate in the science fair in the second semester.
(Full Year Course)

FINE ARTS/PERFORMING ARTS

MUSIC
Guitar (Grades 5-8)
Middle School students will learn the fundamentals of guitar technique.  By the end of the semester, they will be able to perform songs in a variety of music styles in small ensembles and as a group.
(Semester Course)

Vocal Ensemble (Grades 5-8)
The primary goal of this course is to rehearse and perform as an ensemble.  Students will study many styles of choral music to give them a variety between sacred and secular music, unison and part singing, classical to pop.  The rehearsals will emphasize the improvement of vocal skills, sight-reading, listening skills, ensemble singling, working with the changing male voice, music history and theory.  The Ensemble performs throughout the year in the Christmas program, Grandparents’ Day, the Spring concert, chapel services, and other special events.
(Semester Course)

THEATER
Theater (Grades 5-8)
This course will introduce basic acting skills through storytelling and character study.  Students will gain an understanding of the importance of expression through words and body, participating in a variety of exercises and forming constructive criticism of actors from clips of theatrical presentations that will be shown in class. Throughout the semester, students will put their new skills to use by performing a wide range of characters in monologues, short skits, and scenes that will be presented in class.
(Semester Course)

VISUAL ARTS
Visual Arts (Grades 5-8)
This course seeks to encourage careful observation, and to teach a solid understanding of the elements of art and the successful use of the principles of design in composition.  This course will also develop skill in the use of a variety of media, differentiate kinds of paintings and sculpture, introduce great works of art and the artists who created them, provide opportunities for engaging museum experiences, foster an appreciation of fine art, make interdisciplinary connections, stimulate critical thinking skills and experience the joy of the creative process.
(Semester Course)

Online Newspaper/Yearbook (Grades 5-8)
Students will split their time working on the school's yearbook and also on "The Eagle," the school's student run online newspaper. 
(Semester Course)